YELLOWKNIFE (November 21, 2013) – The new Northwest Territories (NWT) Mineral Development Strategy establishes a comprehensive plan to ensure the long-term growth of a sustainable mining industry that will create jobs and economic opportunities for the people of the NWT.
Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay officially launched the Strategy at an event last night during the 41st Yellowknife Geoscience Forum. “Restoring a positive investment climate is important if we are to discover new deposits and establish new mines to sustain and grow our economy” Minister Ramsay said. “The NWT Mineral Development Strategy will ensure our mineral resources continue to be developed in a way that benefits NWT residents, ensures development is sustainable, and upholds our commitment to protect the environment.”
The NWT Mineral Development Strategy focuses on five key areas:
- Creating a competitive edge;
- Establishing a new regulatory environment for the NWT;
- Enhancing Aboriginal engagement and capacity;
- Promoting sustainability; and
- Enriching workforce development and public awareness.
Developed in partnership by the GNWT and NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines, the NWT Mineral Development Strategy also includes information about the roles the NWT mining industry, Aboriginal groups and local governments and communities will play in revitalizing the industry and encouraging new investment.
“This Strategy is an important step forward for mining in the NWT,” said Brook Clements, President of the NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines. “We are establishing a strong foundation that will position us well for a strong and vibrant mineral exploration and development sector in the NWT for many years to come.”
An implementation plan is under development that will outline detailed actions the Government of the NWT will undertake to ensure the goals of the NWT Mineral Development Strategy are realized. The plan will be released in early 2014.
The creation of an environmentally sustainable NWT Mineral Development Strategy was a key priority of the 17th Legislative Assembly, and will strengthen the economy and help to provide all communities and regions with opportunities and choices.
For more information:
Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: alayna_ward@gov.nt.ca
Tom Hoefer
Executive Director
Northwest Territories & Nunavut Chamber of Mines
Tel: (867) 873-5281
Email: executivedirector@miningnorth.com
